Nine plant species in the beach forest of Hijo in Davao del Norte are considered threatened

Philippine flora, noted for its high levels of endemism, is increasingly threatened by deforestation, climate change, illegal logging, and infrastructure development. Although initiatives to establish protected areas are in place, biodiversity loss persists, underscoring the need for more effective conservation policies. Beach forests, in particular, remain understudied, with limited available data on species composition and relatively weak conservation efforts in the Philippines.

This study explored the different plant species found in the swampy beach forest of Hijo, Tagum City, Davao Del Norte, Philippines, focusing on native, endemic, and threatened species. Researchers surveyed the forest by setting up plots along 100-meter lines and identifying the plants they found. A total of 239 plant species were recorded, including 117 native and 28 endemic species, belonging to 55 plant families. Among them, nine species were considered threatened. One plant, Saribus rotundifolius, commonly known as the round-leaf fountain palm or anahaw, stood out as the most dominant species, playing a key role in the forest’s ecosystem. However, the study also found that threats like saltwater intrusion and seasonal flooding could harm young plants trying to grow.

To help protect the forest and its unique plant life, researchers developed a conservation plan that includes growing plants in controlled environments (ex situ) and protecting them in their natural habitat (in situ). Stronger emphasis is placed on in situ methods, particularly forest cover restoration, tree planting, and Assisted Natural Regeneration. Ex situ conservation, including bioresource preservation, educational campaigns, and the participation of civil society groups, complements in situ conservation.

Moreover, this research addresses existing data gaps on beach forest flora in the country, serving as a valuable reference for future ecological assessments and conservation initiatives. By identifying and assessing the distribution and conservation status of plant species, it contributes to the prioritization of conservation efforts in biodiversity-rich but vulnerable coastal ecosystems. The findings highlight the importance of both dominant and less dominant native and endemic species that contribute to the complexity and richness of the study area’s biodiversity. Ultimately, the study aids policymakers, conservationists, and local communities in making informed decisions for biodiversity management and coastal ecosystem resilience.

Authors: Aaron Froilan M. Raganas (Department of Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies, College of Science and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Mindanao), Lief Erikson D. Gamalo (Department of Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies, College of Science and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Mindanao), Joselito B. Chavez Jr. (Hijo Resources Corporation) and Aleyla E. De Cadiz (Department of Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies, College of Science and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Mindanao),

Read the full paper: https://smujo.id/biodiv/article/view/19565/8425